Illinois Basketball Makes Top 6 for California Combo Guard

Illinois Basketball Makes Top 6 for California Combo Guard

Illinois Basketball continues to prioritize scoring guards and wings to add to their class of 2024. After adding Jason Jakstys to their class of 2024, Illinois Basketball seems to be set on their big men of the future. Morez Johnson projects as an instant impact forward with next level talent, while Jakstys adds a unique skillset that will hopefully harness in two to three years. Despite this, Illinois loses a lot after this coming season. Their stars, Terrence Shannon Jr and Coleman Hawkins, will have to move on to the professional ranks. Their three graduate transfers will also run out of eligibility.

That is a lot of scoring that will need to be replaced. Despite the transfer portal possibilities, Brad Underwood and his staff have been recruiting perimeter scoring. They have made the top 8 for Jaiden Glover, and have most recently made the top 6 for Mikey Lewis.

The Player:

Mikey Lewis is a 6 foot 3 combo guard from Prolific Prep. Lewis is currently playing at the same prep school that Coleman Hawkins played at, and is currently shining on the EYBL. The California native  averaged 18.1 points, 4.5 rebounds & 2.2 assists at Peach Jam. Lewis is a combo guard with solid athleticism and perimeter scoring game. He currently has a top 6 of Ole Miss, Illinois, St Mary’s, Kansas, LSU and San Diego State.

Mikey Lewis (@MikeyLewis05) drops his top 6 LSU, Illinois, Saint Mary’s, Kansas, San Diego State, & Ole Miss. pic.twitter.com/Y1KMLm5jfP

— Ballers Bridge (@BallersBridge) July 30, 2023

Per Dushawn London at 247 sports, Lewis said “My relationship with coach Frazier made me want to get up there. I want to get around everybody and see what they’re talking about. I like their play style.” when asked about Illinois. Frazier continues to have ins with scoring guards and Lewis fits that bill.

The Recruitment

It is always tough to pry a west-coast kid to the midwest, however Illinois has the sell. For the most part, guards have thrived. Ayo Dosunmu is the prime example. Mikey has two visits currently scheduled. One is to LSU, and the other is to Illinois. Lewis will be at Illinois for the Penn State-Illinois game. As I have said before, if Illinois Football can win their first three games, they can create quite the environment.